Energy Performance Certificates for Selling Homes

Yes, you need an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to sell a house in the UK. It is a legal requirement for all residential properties being sold, rented, or built, and it must be provided to potential buyers at the earliest opportunity, typically when the property is listed for sale. An EPC gives an overview of the energy efficiency of a property and provides recommendations on how to improve it.

Key Points About EPC Requirements for Selling a House:

1. Legal Requirement:

   • You are required by law to have a valid EPC when selling your property in the UK. If you fail to provide an EPC, you could be fined up to £5,000.

2. Validity of an EPC:

   • An EPC is valid for 10 years. If your property already has an EPC and it’s still valid, you do not need to get a new one. You can check whether your property has a valid EPC using the government’s online register.

3. Energy Efficiency Rating:

   • The EPC provides a property with an energy efficiency rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). This rating gives potential buyers an idea of how much it will cost to heat and power the property, as well as the property's impact on the environment.

4. EPC During Property Marketing:

   • The EPC or its energy efficiency rating must be included in any property marketing materials, including online listings and estate agent brochures.

5. Cost of an EPC:

   • The cost of an EPC can range from £60 to £120, depending on the size and location of the property, and must be arranged through an accredited energy assessor.

What Happens if You Don’t Have an EPC?

If you try to sell a house without a valid EPC, your solicitor or estate agent will likely halt the sale until one is obtained. Additionally, enforcement bodies can impose a fine of up to £5,000 for non-compliance.

When You Do Not Need an EPC

There are a few exceptions where an EPC may not be required, such as:

• Listed buildings (if getting an EPC would alter the character of the building).
• Temporary buildings (used for less than two years).
• Properties used less than four months a year.

However, these exceptions are rare, and most homes being sold will require an EPC.

Why the EPC Matters to Buyers

The energy performance of a property has become an important factor for buyers, especially with rising energy costs and increasing environmental awareness. Homes with higher energy ratings (A to C) are generally more attractive because they offer lower energy bills and are more eco-friendly. An EPC report also provides recommendations on how to improve the property’s energy efficiency, which can be an additional selling point.

How Fraser Bond Can Help

Fraser Bond can assist sellers in arranging an EPC and ensuring that all legal requirements are met before listing your property for sale. Our expert team can also help you interpret the EPC report, offering advice on whether energy improvements could make your home more attractive to potential buyers.

Conclusion

If you're selling a house, having an EPC is not only a legal obligation but also a useful tool to showcase the energy efficiency of your home to potential buyers. Make sure you obtain or update your EPC early in the selling process to avoid delays or fines.